Hawaii County could soon have its first tenant at the Kapulena Agricultural Park since seeking farming leases in 2012.
The Hamakua County Farm Bureau is proposing to lease 441 acres for cattle grazing, according to a resolution the County Council’s Finance Committee will consider today.
Ranchers who are part of a “grazing entity” would be able to use the land, according to the resolution.
Glen Sako, agricultural specialist with county Research and Development, said between 180 and 200 head of cattle likely will be located at the ag park.
The property is located mauka of Honokaa-Waipio Road.
The Farm Bureau’s lease would last for 10 years with an option to renew for another 10-year term. The cost would be $1 a year.
The county previously teamed up with the Farm Bureau to have cattle clear some of the 1,739-acre property, acquired in 1994 in lieu of taxes from Hamakua Sugar Co., in preparation for farming.
So far, the county hasn’t been able to secure other farming tenants.
Sako said large amounts of ironwood trees are a hindrance.
“Clearing would be an issue,” he said.
Sako said the ranchers would have access to a 500,000-gallon reservoir the county built on the property.
He said the Farm Bureau will be responsible for providing water lines to serve the cattle.
Preparations for farm use began in 2010 with new fencing constructed and old roads dug out.
The county previously was looking to sell the land.
Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
